January 18, 1958: The NHL Is Integrated
On January 18, 1958 the first African American played for the NHL. Read the story of Willie O’Ree here.
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January 4, 1976 FBI Conspiracy Against Black Militant Groups Is Uncovered
January 4, 1976 opened America’s eyes to the unlawful acts that the FBI was conducting against black militant groups. Read the report findings and see senate hearing video here.
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Easter Sunday 1939 – Marian Anderson Is Denied The Right To Perform At Constitution Hall
Most Americans best remember Marian Anderson for her conscience-grabbing concert at the Lincoln Memorial on Easter Sunday, 1939 after she was denied the use of Constitution Hall, an arena that, from 1935 to 1952, opened its doors to white artists only. First Lady Eleanor Roosevelt, appalled at the Hall’s racist action, opened the Lincoln Memorial for Anderson’s concert. As Abraham Lincoln’s statue watched over her from behind, Anderson gave an extraordinary performance that will go down in history as one
Read MoreFebruary 1909 – Mamie Smith Records The First Blues Record
Mamie Smith was the first to record a blues record back in 1920. She paved the way for all future musicians of those times. Take a walk back with us as we celebrate Mamie Smith.
Read MoreNAACP Founded February 12, 1909
In the summer of 1908, the country was shocked by the account of the race riots at Springfield, Illinois. Here, in the home of Abraham Lincoln, a mob containing many of the town’s “best citizens,” raged for two days, killed and wounded scores of Negroes, and drove thousands from the city. And because of this the NAACP was born.
Read MoreOscar DePriest – First Black Congressman Elected November 6, 1928
In 1928 Oscar DePriest became the first African American congressman elected to the House of Representatives from a northern state and a national symbol for racial pride. Read more on Oscar DePriest here.
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President Johnson Signs The Civil Rights Act – July 2, 1964
On July 2, 1964 President Lyndon B. Johnson signed the Civil Rights Act. See his remarks on this historic day here.
Read MoreJames Meredith Integrates The University Of Mississippi – October 1, 1962
On October 1, 1962 James Meredith became the first African American student to enroll at the University of Mississippi. See the historical footage from this day here.
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Three Of The Most Important Events In Black Music History
Black music is in fact America’s original music, and the Spirituals-Blues-Jazz-Gospel-Charleston-Twist-HipHop gift is the foundation not only of rhythm and blues but also of Broadway and The Grammys. Check out three of the most major moments in Black Music History.
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VIDEO: Free Huey Newton!
On February 17, 1968, Black Panther Party leader Huey P. Newton was on trial for the shooting of California police officer, John Frey. He had many enemies and supporters. Watch historic video made in protest of Newton’s trial.
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